Federal Government Supports Employment Programs

Kitchener, March 21, 2012 — Harold Albrecht, Member of Parliament for Kitchener-Conestoga, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, today announced a Government of Canada investment to help people in Kitchener develop job skills to overcome barriers to employment.

“Our Government’s top priority is job creation and economic growth – and skills training is vital to preparing our workforce for the future,” said Mr. Albrecht. “I am pleased to announce support for Lutherwood to deliver three projects that will help youth and people with disabilities develop the skills they need to enter and succeed in the job market.”

Skills Link and Opportunities Fund are two Government of Canada programs that help Canadians develop the skills they need to get jobs. Through these three programs, Lutherwood is receiving more than $880,000 to help 115 youth and 18 individuals with disabilities overcome barriers to employment.

“These projects illustrate how the Government is taking action to build a stronger and more inclusive workforce, which is vital for Canada’s long-term prosperity,” said Mr. Albrecht.

The Government of Canada works with community organizations because they are best placed to identify labour shortages and respond to local challenges. With an annual investment of more than $300 million, the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Strategy is helping youth get jobs now and prepare for the workforce of tomorrow.
Today’s youth are tomorrow’s workforce, so by investing in them we are helping contribute to Canada’s long-term growth, competitiveness and overall prosperity

While making the announcement at Lutherwood, Mr. Albrecht outlined the impact that changing demographics – such as an aging population, skills shortages and high unemployment in some regions – will have on the Canadian labour market.